Premature Baby Feeding

Premature Babies Need to Eat at Least Every Three Hours

Tinier babies have tinier tummies. This means she'll have to eat a lot of small meals in order for her to gain weight.

Their Mouths Are Often Extra-Sensitive

If your baby has spent her first few days with tubes and respirators in her mouth, she may assume that anything that goes into her mouth is painful, including a breast or a bottle.

Premature Babies Are Slow to Feed

Feeding her too fast by mouth may result in a feeding aversion or spitting up. She is also likely to have more digestive problems than a full-term baby, since her digestive system may not be as mature as a full-term baby's.

Try these tips on feeding your premature infant:

• Each baby is unique. Follow the advice of your baby's doctor.
• Introduce your baby to a nipple. Even if she is still feeding by tube, this will help her adjust to bottle-feeding when she's ready. You may need to try different nipples at first.
• Stick to breast milk or one type of formula and nipple to help her adjust.
• Keep a record of your baby's feedings.
• Get growth charts, specially designed for premature babies, from your baby's doctor to help monitor her progress.
• Keep your baby on a regular schedule, to help her eat better.
• Make sure your baby is fully awake before feeding.
• Don't force your baby to eat. If she's not sucking as fast, sealing her lips or turning away, she may be full.
• Feed her on demand, not a schedule. Studies have shown that premature babies grew at a faster pace when fed on demand.
• When your baby is developmentally ready, slowly introduce solid foods while she is still on formula.
• Enlist the help and support of family and friends, to give yourself a break.